Warrendale, PA (May 5, 2004) - Dr. Matthew P. Reed, Associate Research Scientist in the Biosciences Division of the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), has been selected to receive the 2004 SAE Lloyd L. Withrow Distinguished Speaker Award. Dr. Reed will be presented with the award during the SAE Digital Human Modeling for Design and Engineering Symposium, June 15-17, 2004 at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan.

This award, established in 1984, is named to honor the late Lloyd L. Withrow, former department head of General Motors Research Laboratories Fuels and Lubricants Department, and a noted speaker at many SAE meetings. The award is intended to recognize those individuals who have received the SAE Oral Presentation Award more than twice.

During his 14 years at UMTRI, Dr. Reed has focused his research on occupant protection and physical ergonomics for road vehicles. He has conducted research on restraint systems, emphasizing investigation of airbag-induced injuries, and has developed a number of tools for vehicle interior design to enhance occupant accommodation, comfort, and safety.

Dr. Reed holds a Ph.D. in industrial and operations engineering, as well as bachelor's and master's degrees in engineering, all from the University of Michigan. He is active on several SAE committees dealing with vehicle interior design and occupant protection.